Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Mary Coughlan, has authorised funding of €100,000 for Emigrant Advice and €80,000 for the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, in order to maintain their support and information services.

Minister Coughlan said: "Information is vital for the empowerment of people. It allows us to access our rights and entitlements and is particularly important in dealing with life changing events, such as the decision to emigrate. The funding I’ve authorised will enable Emigrant Advice and ICTU to provide this information."

"Emigration and unemployment are massively reduced from their previous levels, due to the sound economic management of this Government. Nevertheless, it is important that we recognise the continuing need for supports for people who are contemplating emigration, returning home or seeking help in entering the workforce," said Minister Coughlan.

"The funding for Emigrant Advice is in line with the Task Force Report on Emigration Policy," added Minister Coughlan.

Minister Coughlan’s funding for Emigrant Advice will enable them to continue providing their comprehensive pre-departure information and support service for intending emigrants and their information service for those returning home to Ireland.

ICTU will use the funding to maintain its central Welfare Rights and Information Unit, which supports the development of information, advice and training services, primarily through its network of centres for the Unemployed. The funding will also enable the publication of an updated edition of the 'Congress Guide for Social Welfare Appeals Assessors’.

ENDS - 22 March 2004

Note for News EditorEmigrant Advice is the main dedicated service for prospective emigrants in Ireland. It is a project of Crosscare, the Social Care Agency of the Dublin Diocese. Their focus is on reaching the most vulnerable emigrants, those that are at risk of homelessness, unemployment or addiction problems.